Dave Thompson MSP

There has long been controversy surrounding the proposed housing development at Dalfaber, but it does appear now that it will be going ahead.

One important issue that has been raised in objections is the level crossing at the Strathspey Steam Railway. Level crossing safety has been an important campaign issue for me and, following a successful trial at Ardrossan, Network Rail has committed to build barriers at all open level crossings in the UK.

Unfortunately, the privately owned Steam Railway was not covered by this, but the development at Dalfaber represents a real opportunity to address this. The Cairngorms National Park Authority is doing its best to secure a commitment from the developers to fund the installation of barriers at the crossing. The “Stubby” Barrier trialled at Ardrossan or other options cost far less to install, around £100,000 compared with £1 million previously, and so should not be an onerous requirement for the developer.

The development will bring more people to the area, and there have already been a number of accidents in recent years. It is vital that this safety issue is addressed. It is pleasing that the developer has already offered to make a substantial contribution. I aim to meet shortly with representatives of the Strathspey Steam Railway to discuss this, as well as the extension of the steam railway to Grantown.

The Scottish Government has accepted the recommendations from the Electoral Commission in relation to the Independence referendum in full. As well as the form of the question and limits on campaign funding, the Commission has recommended that the Scottish and Westminster Government work together in the lead up to the referendum to ensure that impartial information is available.

It is regrettable that even following this recommendation, those in London still appear unwilling to engage constructively with the Scottish Government. David Cameron dismissed SNP suggestions by stating that he would not ‘pre-negotiate an end to the union’. Nicola Sturgeon is doing all she can to engage will all stakeholders, in Scotland, London and Europe, to ensure that the people of Scotland are presented with the important information they will require to make the biggest decision in our nation’s history.

Reducing the uncertainty surrounding the referendum debate is the very least that both sides owe voters, and I hope that while there will be differences of opinion on what is best for the people of Scotland, that we can at least work together to ensure that the campaign is run in an adult fashion.